BirguFest is one of the most magical nights of the year in Malta. Once a year, the old harbour city of Birgu switches off its street lights and lets tens of thousands of candles light up its narrow medieval streets. Here’s everything you need to know about BirguFest 2026: dates, what’s on, how to get there and tips from people who’ve done it.
BirguFest 2026 at a glance
- Dates: Friday 9 and Saturday 10 October 2026
- Times: Friday from 8pm, Saturday from 5pm
- Main event: Birgu by Candlelight, on Saturday night
- Where: Birgu (also called Vittoriosa), one of the Three Cities across the Grand Harbour from Valletta
- Entry: walking the streets is free
- Edition: this is the 19th BirguFest
What is BirguFest?
BirguFest is an annual festival celebrating the history and culture of Birgu, one of Malta’s oldest towns. It’s organised with the Birgu Local Council, with help from residents, volunteers and local groups. Birgu itself is packed with history: it was the Knights of St John’s first base in Malta and played a key role in the Great Siege of 1565.
Over two evenings the town fills with live bands, historical re-enactments, open churches and museums, art exhibitions, a short film festival and traditional food. It’s a community event as much as a tourist one, and that’s a big part of its charm.
Birgu by Candlelight: the highlight
The moment everyone comes for is Saturday night, Birgu by Candlelight. The town’s street lights go off and around 45,000 candles are lit along the streets, alleys, staircases and doorways. Walking through the old town in that soft, flickering light is something you won’t forget.
There’s no set route. Just wander. Some of the most atmospheric spots are the small side streets away from the main square, where it’s quieter and the candlelight really stands out against the old limestone walls.
What’s on at BirguFest 2026
Friday 9 October
- The festival opens from 8pm, with music and activities around the town.
- A free concert by The Travellers at 10pm.
Saturday 10 October
- Festivities start from 5pm, with Birgu by Candlelight as darkness falls.
- Tnemnim: three separate concerts organised by the Port Region.
- Live bands in different corners of the town, historical re-enactments and open museums and churches, some hosting concerts.
- An artisan market at Couvre Porte, the old gateway into Birgu, with handmade local crafts.
Programmes can change, so check the Birgu Local Council’s channels on the day for the latest details.
How to get to BirguFest
Birgu gets very busy and parking is extremely limited, so leave the car at home if you can.
- Ferry from Valletta: the easiest and most scenic way in. The ferry between Valletta and Birgu runs until 1am during the festival. Use the Barrakka Lift from Upper Barrakka Gardens to reach the ferry landing.
- Bus: on Saturday, routes 2 and 4 run extended hours to Birgu.
- Shuttle: on Saturday, a shuttle runs from the Lourdes bus stop in Paola to Birgu.
- Taxi: handy for getting home late. Expect busy roads around Cottonera, so agree a pickup point a short walk outside the centre.
Tips for visiting BirguFest
- Go on Saturday if you can only do one night, because that’s the candlelight night.
- Arrive early, around sunset, to see the candles being lit and beat the biggest crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes: the streets are old, uneven and full of steps.
- Bring cash for food stalls and the artisan market.
- Phone camera tip: turn off your flash and use night mode. Candlelight looks far better without it.
- Families: it’s family-friendly, but very crowded later in the evening. Pushchairs are hard work on the stairs.
- Accessibility: many streets have steps and uneven paving, so the waterfront area is easier for wheelchair users.
Frequently asked questions
When is BirguFest 2026?
BirguFest 2026 takes place on Friday 9 and Saturday 10 October 2026. Birgu by Candlelight is on the Saturday night.
Is BirguFest free?
Yes, walking around the festival and enjoying the candlelit streets is free. Some museums or special activities may charge a small entry fee.
Where is Birgu?
Birgu (Vittoriosa) is one of the Three Cities, on the south side of the Grand Harbour, directly across from Valletta.
What is the best time to go?
Saturday evening, arriving around sunset. That’s when the candles are lit and the atmosphere is at its best.
More events this month
BirguFest is just one of many things happening in Malta this October. See our guide to events in Malta in October 2026, the BirguFest event page, or browse the full Malta events calendar.